This is American Education Week, a chance to celebrate public schools and recognize the valuable work of all those who contribute to children's education. American Education Week has been celebrated nationally every year since 1921. Rich Askey, vice president of the Pennsylvania State Education Association, called public schools the cornerstones of the communities they serve, welcoming students of all backgrounds and abilities. He said the success of those schools depends on everyone who plays a part.

In a case with statewide implications, plaintiffs will argue before Commonwealth Court today that school districts should be subject to the state's anti-discrimination law when failing to intercede when students are harassed by peers based on classifications such as race, gender, religion and sexual orientation. WHYY, Nov. 13, 2018

Public education – and how it should be funded - was a core issue in this year’s elections here in Pennsylvania. Voters chose to reelect Governor Tom Wolf, who ran on his record of investing in education and restoring past cuts in school funding.

Last week, Gov. Tom Wolf won a second term by defeating Republican challenger Scott Wagner. A Wagner victory would have paved the way for more school choice-friendly policies such as education savings accounts — which would divert some existing public school dollars to help parents pay for private school tuition.

The PA Association of School Administrator's (PASA) Aspiring to Leadership Workshops is designed to provide practical information and tools to assist those considering a future career as a district cabinet-level leader and/or superintendent.

The PASA Aspiring to Leadership Workshops provide a focused and practical lens into current cabinet level and superintendent roles and responsibilities. Mock interviews are facilitated at the Central Office Workshop to help candidates hone their skills. Anyone who aspires to these positions should attend. Experienced and effective cabinet level leaders, superintendents and other educational leaders facilitate the sessions. These workshops continue to receive outstanding reviews.

Earn Graduate Credit! PASA is partnering with Shippensburg University to provide the option of earning three Shippensburg University graduate credits that can be applied to its nationally recognized Letter of Eligibility Program. The credit option requires two weekend seminars and a field experience through Shippensburg University, in addition to participation in both days of PASA’s Aspiring to Leadership Workshops. Those seeking this option must be currently serving in an administrative or supervisory position.

Aspiring to Cabinet-Level/Central Office Leadership

PASA Office - Jan. 31, 2019 (April 8 - snow make-up date)

Focus:an overview of cabinet positions; preparation for these roles; team building; the differences between contracted term and tenured compensation plans; and actions for successfully transitioning to the role that is right for you. Current superintendents and a cabinet-level leaders will facilitate practice interviews with participants.

Aspiring to the Superintendency

PASA Office - Feb. 1, 2019 (April 9 - snow make-up date)

Focus: an overview of the role, responsibilities and rewards of serving as a superintendent; balancing responsibilities; finding the right match; negotiating a sound contract; and entry planning and transition. A search consultant will discuss the search process and tips for securing the job.

Four years ago, Paul France left a teaching job in the Chicago suburbs to move to San Francisco and be part of the so-called personalized-learning revolution in education. He joined a high-profile start-up called AltSchool whose investors include Mark Zuckerberg and the venture-capital firm Andreessen Horowitz.

Governor Tom Wolf today launched the next phase of his new and innovative PAsmart initiative by announcing that $30 million in grants are available to invest in K-12 computer science and STEM education, expand registered apprenticeships, and support job training with Industry Partnership programs.

A portion of Pennsylvania’s historic $70 million investment in school and community safety will soon make its way into school district coffers with many districts interested in using that money to buy security technology and equipment and visitor ID systems. Pennlive, Nov. 8, 2018Full story